| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1873
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
(Situated on the Université de Montréal campus)
Language of Instruction: Primarily French
Type: Public Engineering School (École Polytechnique)
Polytechnique offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs focusing on engineering disciplines.
Aerospace Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Software Engineering
Mining, Materials, and more
Note: Most undergrad programs are in French, so proficiency is often required.
Research-based and course-based Master’s (M.Eng., M.A.Sc.)
Ph.D. in various engineering disciplines
Some programs are available in English, especially at the graduate level.
Polytechnique is a research powerhouse in Canada:
Over 250 research professors
Cutting-edge labs in AI, sustainable energy, robotics, nanotech, etc.
Strong collaborations with industries and research centers across Quebec and globally.
Welcomes students from all over the world.
Offers English-language support, but knowledge of French is often helpful for living in Montreal.
Some Master's and PhD programs are entirely in English.
Polytechnique Montréal is affiliated with the Université de Montréal, but it operates independently. It has its own campus and administrative structure.
Located in Montréal, a vibrant, multicultural, and student-friendly city.
Affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities.
Rich in art, festivals, food, and bilingual culture (French & English).
All undergraduate programs are typically taught in French.
Aerospace Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Materials Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mining Engineering
Physics Engineering
Software Engineering
Geological Engineering
Duration: 4 years (usually includes internships or co-op options)
Graduate programs are available in both French and English, depending on the program and supervisor.
Polytechnique offers two main formats:
Requires a thesis
Ideal for students aiming for R&D or PhD later
More industry-oriented
Can often be completed in 1.5–2 years
Aerospace Engineering
Artificial Intelligence
Bioengineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Data Science and Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Energy Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Nanotechnology
Software Engineering
Telecommunications
Transportation Engineering
Water Management
Doctoral studies focus on advanced research in engineering fields. Students work closely with research supervisors in specialized labs.
All major engineering disciplines listed above
Interdisciplinary research (e.g., AI + Healthcare, Sustainability + Civil Engineering)
Ideal for professionals looking to specialize or update their skills.
Popular topics:
AI & Machine Learning
Cybersecurity
Sustainable Development
Project Management
Data Analytics
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Aerospace Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Computer Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Materials Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Mining Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Physics Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Software Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
|
Geological Engineering |
4 years |
$20,000 – $21,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Aerospace Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Applied Mathematics |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Computer Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Data Science and Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Energy Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Materials Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Nanotechnology |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Nuclear Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Operations and Logistics Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Software Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Systems Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Telecommunications Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Transportation Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
Water Resources Engineering |
2 years |
$16,500 – $18,000 |
|
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Aerospace Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Computer Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Energy Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Materials Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Nanotechnology |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Nuclear Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Software Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Systems Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Telecommunications Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Transportation Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Water Resources Engineering |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Applied Mathematics |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Artificial Intelligence (interdisciplinary) |
4 years |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
Polytechnique Montréal is one of Canada’s top engineering schools, offering world-class education and cutting-edge research opportunities. It’s located in the heart of Montréal, a bilingual, multicultural, and student-friendly city known for its vibrant lifestyle and relatively affordable cost of living.
Every year, Polytechnique welcomes hundreds of international students from across the globe. Whether you’re coming for a bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or even a short research stay or exchange program, there are solid support systems in place.
Bachelor’s (B.Eng.): Taught mostly in French. If you're applying for undergraduate studies, French proficiency is required (TEF, TCF, or equivalent).
Master’s & PhD programs: Many graduate-level programs are available in English, especially in research-focused degrees like M.A.Sc. and PhD. Course-based Master's programs may still require some French, depending on the course.
Bachelor’s: ~$20,000–21,000 USD per year
Master’s: ~$16,500–18,000 USD per year
PhD: ~$8,000–9,000 USD per year (often covered by scholarships or funding)
Scholarships and assistantships are commonly available for graduate-level students, especially for research-based degrees.
For undergraduate programs: French proficiency is mandatory
For graduate programs: English or French, depending on the program
Montréal is bilingual, but daily life is easier if you have at least basic French
Cost of living is affordable compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver
Expect to spend ~$10,000–$15,000 USD per year on housing, food, transport, etc.
The city is vibrant, safe, full of festivals, cafes, tech hubs, and green spaces
Orientation programs
Immigration and visa help
French language support and classes
Career services and internship opportunities
International student advisors
International students can work part-time (up to 20 hrs/week) during studies and full-time during breaks
After graduation, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which can lead to permanent residency in Canada
Start by identifying the program you want to apply for:
Bachelor’s (B.Eng.) – Requires French proficiency
Master’s (M.A.Sc. or M.Eng.) – Course-based or research-based
PhD – Research-intensive with supervisor requirement
Browse official program offerings here: N/A
High school diploma equivalent to Quebec’s Diplôme d'études collégiales (DEC)
Strong background in math, physics, chemistry
French proficiency (usually B2 level or equivalent – TEF, TCF, DELF)
Minimum GPA requirement (varies by country and program)
Bachelor’s degree in a related field (engineering, science, etc.)
Minimum GPA (usually around 3.0/4.0 or equivalent)
Proof of language proficiency:
French (if applying to a French-taught program)
English (if applying to an English-taught graduate program): TOEFL iBT ~90 or IELTS ~6.5
Master’s degree in a related field
A research proposal may be required
Find a research supervisor before applying
CV, letters of recommendation, publications (if any)
Language proficiency (English or French)
Common requirements:
Academic transcripts (translated if not in French/English)
Diploma certificates
Language test results (French or English)
Statement of purpose/motivation letter
CV/Resume
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Passport copy
Submit your application via the Polytechnique Montréal application portal: https://www.polymtl.ca/futurs
Deadlines:
Fall intake (September): Applications usually close around January–March
Winter intake (January): Some programs accept winter entry — deadlines vary
There’s a non-refundable application fee (about $120 CAD).
You'll receive updates via email or the application portal
Processing can take a few weeks to a couple of months
If accepted, you’ll receive a Letter of Admission, which is required for your study permit/visa
Once accepted:
Apply for a CAQ (Quebec Acceptance Certificate) – mandatory for studying in Quebec
Then apply for a Canadian study permit via IRCC
Attend the orientation week for international students
Set up health insurance, student ID, bank account, etc.
Register for classes and start your studies!
Main Intake: Fall (September)
Applications usually open in November and close around March for international students.
Winter (January): Not available for most undergraduate programs.
Fall Intake: September (Most popular and widely available)
Deadline: Usually February to March
Winter Intake: January (Available for some programs)
Deadline: Typically August to September
Summer Intake (May): Very limited; usually for research-based Master’s with supervisor approval
Flexible Intake: Fall, Winter, or Summer — depends on the supervisor and program.
Applications can be submitted year-round, but Fall is the most common start.
Academic:
High school diploma (equivalent to Quebec’s CEGEP/DEC)
Strong grades in math, physics, chemistry
Some international qualifications accepted: A-Levels, IB, Indian HSC, US High School Diploma with APs, etc.
Language:
French proficiency required (at least B2 level)
Accepted tests: TEF, TCF, DELF, or completion of French language studies
Academic:
Bachelor's degree in engineering or a closely related field
Minimum GPA: Usually 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent, e.g. 65–75%)
Language:
For French programs: French B2 proficiency (TEF, TCF, DELF, or equivalent)
For English-taught programs (mostly at graduate level):
TOEFL iBT: 85–90
IELTS: 6.5 overall
Or previous education in English
Additional for M.A.Sc.:
Identify and contact a research supervisor
Submit a research proposal or statement of interest
Academic:
Completed Master’s degree in a related field
Strong academic record and research background
Language:
French or English depending on program and supervisor
Same minimums as for Master’s (TOEFL, IELTS, or French certifications)
Additional Requirements:
Identify a research supervisor
Submit a detailed research proposal
Letters of recommendation, academic CV, and sometimes publications
Ranking System |
Category |
Rank |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Engineering & Technology (global) |
~ Top 250 |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Canada – Engineering Schools |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Global Universities – Engineering |
~ Top 300 worldwide |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Canada – Best Engineering Schools |
Top 10 |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Eligibility / Description |
Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarships |
Bachelor’s |
Awarded based on academic excellence at admission |
$2,000 – $5,000 (one-time) |
|
Merit Scholarships for International Students |
Master’s, PhD |
Based on academic excellence and research potential |
$3,000 – $10,000 |
|
Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) |
Master’s (M.A.Sc.), PhD |
Funding from supervisor’s research grant (research-based programs) |
$15,000 – $25,000/year |
|
Quebec Merit Scholarship – PBEEE |
Master’s, PhD |
Provincial-level, very competitive, high academic standing |
Master’s: $20,000/year |
|
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship |
Master’s, PhD |
For students from Commonwealth countries (via Canadian govt.) |
(usually full tuition + stipend) |
|
PolyFinances Scholarships |
Master’s, PhD |
For students involved in innovation, finance, entrepreneurship |
$2,000 – $6,000 |
|
Faculty or Departmental Scholarships |
All levels |
Varies by department or project – offered to top students |
$1,000 – $10,000 |
|
Mitacs Globalink Research Award |
Master’s, PhD |
For short-term research collaboration with a professor |
$6,000 (research project grant) |
Facility / Option |
Description |
Approximate Cost (USD/Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus Location |
Located on the Université de Montréal campus, in the Côte-des-Neiges area of Montréal |
— |
|
On-Campus Residence (ZUM Housing) |
University-managed housing for students (shared or private rooms) |
$450 – $850 |
|
Université de Montréal Residences |
Also accessible to Polytechnique students; various room types available |
$500 – $900 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Apartments or shared housing near campus |
$600 – $1,200 |
|
Homestay (limited) |
Live with a local host family (includes meals, good for French immersion) |
$800 – $1,100 |
|
Temporary Housing |
Hotels, hostels, or Airbnb for short-term stays before moving into permanent housing |
$30 – $60/night |
|
Meal Plan (optional) |
Not mandatory – students usually cook on their own |
$200 – $400/month (groceries) |
|
Campus Facilities |
Libraries, innovation labs, sports center, cafeterias, student associations |
Included in student fees |
|
Transportation |
Discounted student OPUS card for metro/buses; close to subway station |
~$30 – $45/month (student fare) |
At Polytechnique Montréal, the academic atmosphere is vibrant, challenging, and research-driven. The school is known for its rigorous engineering programs, but students also enjoy access to innovation labs, industry partnerships, and co-op opportunities. Graduate students (especially those in thesis-based programs) are often deeply involved in cutting-edge research.
Small class sizes in advanced courses and strong support from professors create a collaborative learning environment.
Montréal itself is one of the most multicultural cities in North America, and Polytechnique reflects that diversity. The campus includes students from more than 120 countries, so international students never feel out of place.
Whether you're fluent in French or still learning, there are services and communities to help you adjust — including conversation groups, language support, and international student clubs.
Polytechnique is located on the slopes of Mount Royal, sharing a lush, green campus with Université de Montréal. The setting feels close to nature, but still right in the heart of the city. There are nearby cafés, metro stations, grocery stores, and tons of student-friendly places within walking distance.
The underground tunnel system even connects parts of the campus, so winters are easier to handle.
Student life isn't just academics! There are dozens of student clubs and associations, from robotics and entrepreneurship to photography, gaming, and humanitarian aid. Major events include:
Welcome Week (integration for new students)
Engineering Games (inter-university competitions)
Cultural nights, pub nights, and international student mixers
Career fairs and networking events
Hackathons and innovation challenges
Students can also join technical clubs, sports teams, or take part in research symposiums.
Polytechnique students have access to:
Gyms and fitness centers
Indoor swimming pool
Outdoor sports fields
Climbing walls
Group fitness classes like yoga, spinning, etc.
There are also student rates for sports programs, and many students enjoy outdoor activities like biking and hiking on nearby Mount Royal.
Polytechnique Montréal provides excellent student support services:
International student office (immigration, health insurance, and orientation)
Academic advising and tutoring
Mental health and wellness counseling
French language support programs
Career services and job placement help
Montréal is a massive bonus for Polytechnique students. It’s a safe, exciting, and relatively affordable city with tons of cultural life, music, festivals (like Just for Laughs, Jazz Fest), and world-class food.
It’s also bilingual, so you can get by with English, but learning French definitely enriches the experience.
Polytechnique Montréal has deep ties with industry, especially in engineering, technology, and innovation. Many programs are designed with real-world, industry-focused projects, and the school works closely with companies like:
Bombardier
Hydro-Québec
CAE
Pratt & Whitney
Ubisoft
Ericsson
SNC-Lavalin
National Research Council (NRC)
And many startups in AI, software, and clean tech sectors
These partnerships help students land internships, co-op placements, and full-time jobs after graduation.
Most undergraduate and graduate programs offer co-op options, allowing students to alternate between academic semesters and paid work terms (typically 4 to 8 months).
Benefits:
Real-world experience
Networking with employers
Earning income during studies
Enhancing employability
Co-op salaries in engineering can range from $2,000 to $3,500 CAD/month
Polytechnique has an excellent reputation in Canada and internationally. While official statistics vary by program, job placement rates are consistently high, especially in sectors like:
Software & IT
Aerospace
AI and Machine Learning
Energy and Environment
Civil Infrastructure
Telecommunications
Robotics and Automation
Many students get job offers before graduating, especially those involved in co-op or thesis research with companies.
Polytechnique offers a dedicated Career and Placement Services office (Service des stages et emplois), which helps with:
Resume & cover letter reviews
Interview prep
Job search strategies
Career fairs and employer networking events
Job portals exclusively for Polytechnique students
International students graduating from Polytechnique are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), valid for up to 3 years, allowing them to stay and work in Canada.
Many use this time to:
Gain Canadian work experience
Apply for Permanent Residency through programs like PEQ (Québec Experience Program) or Express Entry
Google (Montréal)
IBM
Microsoft
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
WSP
Hatch
Deloitte
Ubisoft
Desjardins
Government of Québec & Canada
Program Level |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
Bachelor’s (B.Eng.) |
~40% – 50% |
|
Master’s (M.Eng./M.A.Sc.) |
~30% – 50% |
|
PhD (Doctorate) |
~20% – 30% (more selective) |
Program Popularity & Competitiveness
Programs like Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, and Aerospace are more competitive, especially at the graduate level.
Academic Profile
A strong GPA, good letters of recommendation, and relevant coursework or research can significantly improve your chances.
Language Proficiency
French is required for most undergraduate programs, and either English or French is accepted at the graduate level (depending on the program). Meeting the language requirement is essential.
Supervisor Approval (for M.A.Sc. & PhD)
For research-based master’s and PhD programs, finding a supervisor before applying is often mandatory — and one of the biggest hurdles.
Quota & Capacity
Certain programs have limited seats or funding available, particularly for international students.
If you meet the academic and language requirements, and especially if you apply early and thoughtfully (good SOP, CV, etc.), your chances of acceptance are very good — especially for course-based Master’s and most Bachelor’s programs.
For PhD or research master’s, the key is to connect with a supervisor early, show strong research alignment, and submit a polished proposal.
Polytechnique Montréal is located in the heart of Montréal, in the province of Québec, Canada. It is situated on the northern slope of Mount Royal, within the campus of the Université de Montréal (UdeM).
2500 Chemin de Polytechnique
Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4
Canada
Part of the Université de Montréal campus in the Côte-des-Neiges neighborhood
Nestled next to Mount Royal Park, offering a beautiful and green campus environment
Easily accessible by public transport (Montreal Metro – Université-de-Montréal station)
Close to student-friendly areas, cafés, restaurants, libraries, and grocery stores
Metro Station: Université-de-Montréal (Orange Line) – right next to the campus
Bus Routes: Several STM bus lines serve the area
Bike paths and walking trails around Mount Royal are easily accessible
Located just 15 minutes from downtown Montréal
Safe, bilingual, multicultural area with a vibrant student population
Nearby neighborhoods like Côte-des-Neiges, Outremont, and Plateau are popular with students for housing
